Terror in Tripoli: Gunfire and explosions as masked terrorists attack offices of Libya’s state oil corporation

Gunfire and explosions reported at the headquarters of the National Oil Corporation (NOC) in the Libyan capital Tripoli. Witnesses say there have been several casualties. A hostage situation is currently underway.

According to sources, smoke could be seen rising from close to the NOC offices. Security officials said they were attempting to deal with Muslim terrorists believed to have attacked the building.

An NOC employee told Libyan television that three masked terrorists had attacked the building.

Security forces took up positions around the offices in central Tripoli, while surrounding roads were cordoned off. Witnesses said they saw ambulances leaving the site. A member of staff from a hotel next to the NOC offices said that he had heard around five blasts.